Plenty of cold fun this weekend

The 2014 U.S. National Snow Sculpting Competition will be held in Lake Geneva through Feb. 8. The event features a competition of sculptors from around the country. Terry Mayer photo

Winterfest can persuade anyone outside, even those who've had enough of winter already. What's not to like: A competition of fantastic snow sculptures by artists from around the country, sleigh-on-wheel rides and much more in Lake Geneva. But you can also paint and sip in Fontana or dance the light fantastic at a historic ballroom in Twin Lakes.

Lake Geneva's Winterfest is in its first week at Riviera Park with the U.S. Nationals Snw Sculpting Competition. See sculptors in action Thursday, Jan. 30 and Friday, Jan., 31, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

On Saturday, Feb. 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., there will be children's snow sculpting, wagon rides, helicopter rides, tethered hot air balloon rides, sleigh-on-wheels rides in Riviera Park. There's also entertainment fun and refreshments in the Riviera Ballroom, including children's entertainment every hour from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sculpting ends and team judging begins at 11 a.m.; from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. People's Choice Award voting is held, and at 3 p.m., the awards presentation will be made in the Riviera Ballroom.

On Sunday, Feb. 2: all day, viewing of finished sculptures. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., entertainment, fun and refreshments in the Riviera Ballroom. See the full schedule HERE.

Fundraiser for the Walworth County Association for the Prevention of Family Violence, Friday, Jan. 30. Enjoy a dinner at Simple Restaurant, 525 Broad St., Lake Geneva, with seatings at 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. Proceeds benefit the APFV. Reservations at (262) 248-3556

Paint N' Sip, Feb. 1, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The Abbey Resort, 269 Fontana Blvd., Fontana. Enjoy a glass of wine as a professional artist guides you through the creation of an original piece of art on a 16-x-20-inch canvas. All painting supplies will be provided. (262) 275-9085

Winter Carnival at The Mountain Top at Grand Geneva Resort, Feb. 1, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Activities for adults and children including snowboard competitions, slalom races and the famous torch light parade and fireworks display around 8 p.m. (262) 249-4726.